by Ryan Rosenbaum

Bit by bit, putting it together... Piece by piece, only way to make a work of art. Every moment makes a contribution. Every little detail plays a part. Having just the vision's no solution. Everything depends on execution. Putting it together. That's what counts.

-Stephen Sondheim

It’s been my honor to serve as the Executive Director of the CHCA these past 16 months and hopefully many more to come. Few people know that one of my personal passions in life is theater.

As a college student, I studied the art, participated onstage and behind the scenes as well. It’s where I met my wife and it’s become an enjoyable escape for me . The aspect of theater that I enjoy the most are the many elements needed to put on a great production, including the many people who work together to put on a show.

It is my feeling that the community of Chestnut Hill is not dissimilar to a fine theatrical production. Throughout the year, we create events and programs that require the artistry of people and resources to make this the biggest stage in Philadelphia. Between the epic concerts of Pastorius Park (now going into its 69th season), the weekly outdoor Movies Under the Stars Series in August, the annual Holiday Parade, the untiring support for zoning and variance concerns, the strategic partnerships set in place with city leaders, the careful execution of caring for our neighborhood parks/gardens, and the devotion to help service general residential needs make Chestnut Hill the hottest ticket in town.

None of this happens by accident. Just as it is true that our volunteers are the stars of the show, everyone knows that a good show takes the support of passionate producers. Last year we had more than 500 community members donate between $1 and $5,000 to the annual appeal. We are seeking your help so that the show can go on. It is my hope that we can see another 200 donations happen in the final two weeks of this annual appeal. The official last day to make donations is March 31. Your support is absolutely paramount for the continual and valued services offered from the CHCA.

Allow me to remind you that my staff and I are happy to assist you and your neighbors. Our offices are located in the heart of the Avenue (8434 Germantown Ave.). At least one staff person is here from 9 a.m.t 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. We are always reachable by phone at 215-248-8810. You can reach me at any time at ryan@chestnuthill.org. I am happy to explain how and where your tax-deductible donations are going.

Besides mailing a check to:

CHCA Annual Appeal

8434 Germantown Avenue

Phila., PA. 19118

You can also securely go to our website -- www.chestnuthill.org  --and click the “donate” button. Donations can be made safely through our PayPal portal.

You are always free to stop by here at anytime or call us on the phone with a payment.

To those who have already given this year, we are grateful and very much appreciative. For those who are planning to give by our 3/31 deadline, we want to thank you for considering us. When the curtains go up on the 2017-2018 fiscal year, it was made possible because of you.

Now let’s get out there and Break a Leg!!

Ryan Rosenbaum is Executive Director of the Chestnut Hill Community Association